The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) had announced three free biking and bikeshare sessions for adults ages 50 and older through its Golden Gears program. The recent nor’easter threat forced rescheduling on some of those events.
Participants do not need to own a bicycle or have experience using bikeshare. Each session will include an introduction to the local bikeshare system, a guided group ride, free cycling equipment and bikeshare passes. Participants can also attend an optional biking refresher before each session.
The sessions will now be held on the following dates:
- October 17th from 9:30 am -12:30 pm at the Gazebo at Rivergreen Park in Everett – flier available here.
- October 24th from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm at the UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center in Springfield – flier available here.
- October 31st from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm at the Worcester Public Library’s Banx Room (fireside chat only) – flier available here.
The sessions are supported through an AARP Community Challenge Flagship Grant awarded to MassDOT to launch a bikeshare education and activation program for Massachusetts adults ages 50 and older that can be replicated in communities across the state. The program provides instruction, encouragement, equipment, and peer support to people who may be interested in biking but would benefit from additional guidance before riding independently.
The Golden Gears program also builds on MassDOT’s broader work to support safe, accessible, and connected transportation options through initiatives including Complete Streets, Shared Streets and Spaces, MassTrails, bikeshare expansion, and statewide bicycle and micromobility safety efforts. The program is responsive to a suggestion in the Special Commission on Micromobility Final Report to engage older adults in micromobility.
For more information on the program and event registration, please visit the MassDOT Golden Gears Program website or call 857-278-4563.